Deserving of the DREAM

In the spring, when college admission letters arrive, America’s local newspapers are filled with articles about students who have persevered against the odds, excelled at school and in their communities and made it into leading colleges and universities.

Gabrielle, from Santa Ana, Calif. was one such student. She shined in writing and English, and came to Harvard determined to return home to teach in her hometown school. Christian was another. He was raised by his single mother, broke cross-country records at his Illinois high school, continually met the highest academic standards and now attends Brown. Carlos grew up in the Silicon Valley, where his parents worked minimum wage jobs and valued education. He got into Harvard and is now starting Stanford Medical School.

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We are all proud of these young people — and of our commitment as a country to invest in them and their education. It is no surprise that we, presidents of two leading American universities, believe education is an essential investment that pays dividends for our society’s future.

Developing children’s full potential through education can improve career opportunities, increase personal happiness and success and prepare them to make important contributions to society. The education of every child represents a crucial investment in our collective future. These students become the talented young workers and innovators likely to drive future economic growth and innovation.

But Gabrielle, Christian and Carlos each faced an additional barrier to success: They were undocumented. These young people — and thousands like them — were brought to the United States as minors, many as infants and grew up in our neighborhoods communities.

They didn’t decide to come here, but they have made this their home. And they thrived – attending school, following the rules and working toward their futures.

But some rules today are harsh and unforgiving. These young people are not eligible to work in the United States, to join the military or even apply for a student visa to study in our colleges and universities, because of their immigration status.

For these reasons, we strongly support the DREAM Act, the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act, now pending in Congress. The DREAM Act would throw a lifeline to thousands of promising students, part of our communities, who, through no fault of their own, face uncertain futures due to their lack of immigration status.

The DREAM Act gives these young men and women an opportunity to change that. If they were brought to America at a very young age and meet strict eligibility requirements — and if they complete two years of post-secondary education or military service — then they can apply for citizenship.

Talent is the lifeblood of both of our institutions — and our nation. The DREAM Act allows us to build on the investment we, as a society, have already made. It will help us harness the homegrown talents of thousands of young people who are from our hometowns and neighborhoods — and who already share the American Dream

Drew Faust is the president of Harvard University. John Hennessy is the president of Stanford University.